One modern movie that is often praised for its excellent use of minimalistic settings is "Moonlight" (2016). The film primarily takes place in urban Miami, focusing on a few key locations such as the protagonist's neighborhood, a diner, and a beach.
The minimalistic settings in "Moonlight" enhance the story by creating a sense of intimacy and focus on the characters and their emotions. The simplicity of the locations helps to highlight the internal struggles and complexities of the characters, allowing the audience to connect more deeply with their experiences. The sparse settings also contribute to the overall mood and atmosphere of the film, emphasizing the quiet moments and powerful emotions portrayed on screen.